Already the majority shareholder in the combined Hillman/Humber concern, Rootes completed its take-over in 1931.

Under Rootes' guidance, Hillman concentrated on models with mass-market appeal - the shortly-to-be-announced Minx would ensure the reconstituted company's success - while Humber was pitched at a wealthier clientele.

Humber's first all-new model conceived under Rootes' ownership was the '12'.

Introduced in 1933, the '12' was powered by a 1,669cc four-cylinder sidevalve engine that in enlarged, overhead-valve form would still be in production over 30 years later.

Coupled to a four-speed gearbox, this versatile power unit went into an entirely conventional X-braced chassis featuring semi-elliptic springing at both ends and Bendix cable brakes.

Pressed Steel provided the standard six-light saloon body while the range also included the two-door Vogue saloon, a tourer and a drophead coupé.

In 1935 the '12' was updated and restyled, gaining a new frame, an all-synchromesh gea...